Between work deadlines, your kid’s activities, household tasks, and other day-to-day obligations, how are you to find time to exercise? Here’s a question: “Do you make it a habit of scheduling in meetings, doctor, and hair appointments into your cell phone or calendar?” Yes, then why not give your exercise routine the same important approach. You know exercise helps with stress; fights & prevents certain types of disease; it builds a positive self-image; it gives you energy and makes you feel youthful.

Here are 5 tips to help you stick to your exercise schedule and make it become a part of your routine.

1.Book an exercise appointment: A what? An appointment for yourself where you slot in and schedule 30 – 60 minutes of exercise time. And remember, if you cancel or let the appointment slip, make there be a cost! 2.Make sure to book your exercise ‘appointment’ at a time that works for you: What I mean here is a time where you know you are more likely to stick to it. Whether it be first thing in the morning (no sleeping in), during your lunch break (your lunch hour is your hour not work hour), or in the evening (turn off your TV, your computer, and move your body).3.Use the buddy system: Invite someone who you trust and know will help you stick with your exercise routine. Be it a friend, co-worker, or neighbour, you’ll both look forward to this time and help each other stick to it. You’ll both reap the physically benefits, and love the social and/or ‘venting’ time. How about a work lunch hour walking club!

4.Join a group fitness class: Group fitness creates camaraderie, is motivational, and supportive. You’ll find that a lot of participants share in the same similar goals as you and often new found friendships are created. Miss a class; the instructor may contact you asking where you were and you’ll probably have some participants also asking where you were last class.

5.Make a pact to yourself that your life depends on your exercise ‘me’ time. Does this sound too harsh? Not really because you know that your life, your body & mind really does depend on exercise.

So there you have it; how to schedule and stick with your exercise routine.Be sure to find a type of exercise that you enjoy and have fun! Before you know it, people will comment on your smile, your positive energy, your healthy glow.